Civil society groups and student protesters on Wednesday barricaded the main entrance of the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, demanding the immediate and safe rescue of students, pupils, and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
The demonstration came as the Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) began an indefinite strike and withdrew services over the kidnappings in Ahoro Esiele and Yawota communities.
The victims have remained in captivity for about 18 days, according to the protesters.
Marching through heavy rain, the protesters called on both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to intensify rescue efforts. They vowed to sustain the protest until the abductees are released.
“We are here to demand the immediate and safe rescue of our students, pupils, and teachers. Eighteen days is too long. The government must act now,” one of the protesters said.
The groups stressed that urgent action was needed to restore confidence in the security of schools and communities across the state.
Due to the protest, the entrance to the Agodi Secretariat was placed under lock and key to forestall a breakdown of law and order. Government activities at the main gate were disrupted as security operatives stood guard.
The NUT strike has already shut down public schools in Oriire LGA, with teachers withdrawing services until the victims are freed.
As of press time, there was no official update from the Oyo State Government on ongoing rescue operations.
